It took nearly two years for someone to spot the loving nature of this pit bull and adopt him.
The dog, Howler, had been on the adoption list of the Animal Welfare Society of SA in Philippi for 180 days, and he had been at the premises for 700 days, which spokesman Allan Perrins, says is a record at the facility.
But last week staff had to bid farewell to the gentle giant after he was adopted by a delighted Donovan Nel of Eerste River.
Allan says Howler was being kept in a cage at the facility and will really enjoy his new-found freedom with his new family.
He says they were elated when Donovan and his family fell in love with Howler.
“Howler, who has been with us for just over 700 days, joined his forever, loving new family,” says Allan.
“Based on the positive feedback and photos from the family, he is clearly a daddy’s boy.
“They appreciated just how much enjoyment and comfort Howler got from his car tyre while at the Society, so no guesses as to what his first toy was - a brand-new tyre.”
PAWSOME: Howler gets love from new ‘dad’ Donovan Nel
Donovan, who owns his own charter company, tells the Daily Voice they were captivated from the day they met Howler.
“When I saw him, I said ‘that is my dog’,” the dad says.
“He was in captivity for so long and was frightened at first.
“The inspector made three visits to our house and then we were allowed to bring him home.
“We had a similar dog a few years ago and got to know their traits.
“Howler came from a broken home. The couple who had him got divorced and he was stuck in the middle.
“Now he is part of our lives and chews everything and loves to play with old tyres.”
WATCH: Howler gets a new family